While technically possible to drive with a malfunctioning catalytic converter, it’s not
advised. An ineffective converter produces excessive heat that could potentially
harm other engine components and attract thieves due to the valuable metals
contained within its construction like platinum, palladium, and rhodium contained therein.
If the Check Engine Light illuminates, here are a few signs it may be time for a
catalytic converter replacement: 1. Rattling Sounds.
1. Check Engine Light
One of the telltale signs that your catalytic converter has started to fail is when the
check engine light illuminates. This indicator tells drivers that their car has
registered a problem that needs immediate attention from them.
Problems in your vehicle could range from a loose gas cap to serious misfire that’s
damaging both engine and catalytic converter components, so the sooner the issue
is addressed the less damage will result.
A catalytic converter is responsible for converting toxic exhaust gasses to safer,
cleaner gasses. If it is malfunctioning properly, however, this could lead to poor fuel
economy and overproduction of pollutants; emissions should remain below legal
limits to ensure safe driving.
2. Clogged Exhaust System
An exhaust system on a car is an intricate network of pipes, sensors, and devices
designed to remove harmful hydrocarbons and nitrogen oxides from its engine.
These gases enter through its manifold before being sent through flexible pipes,
catalytic converters, oxygen sensors and eventually to its final destination – the muffler.
Clogged catalytic converters reduce oxygen flow into an engine, which is essential
for fuel combustion and can result in overheating, misfiring and other engine related issues.
If your vehicle is experiencing power loss at low speeds or is jerking violently, these
symptoms could indicate that its catalytic converter has become blocked.
Furthermore, you might notice an unpleasant odor similar to that of rotten eggs
caused by its chemical mechanism malfunctioning and failing.
3. Reduced Gas Mileage
If your gas tank seems to need filling more often than usual, this could be a telltale
sign that the catalytic converter has malfunctioned. A blocked catalytic converter
will trap exhaust fumes inside your car, forcing it to work harder at speed and power production.
Increased pressure can cause engine to stall due to overheating. A rattling noise
upon startup is another telltale sign of catalytic converter trouble; caused by
honeycomb materials cracking under extreme heat or damage.
Leaks in an engine can expose it to contaminants like oil and coolant, further
degrading its honeycomb structure and necessitating repair services for assistance.
If this is occurring to you, contact an auto repair shop immediately for assistance.
4. Rattling Noises
Rattle sounds coming from underneath your vehicle may indicate that its ceramic
honeycomb catalytic converter has disintegrated, usually as the result of excessive
heat or damage – something which would negatively impact its engine performance
and be bad news.
Rattling sounds can often be heard when your vehicle is idle or starting up, and can
become more noticeable as soon as gas is applied. They could also be caused by an
improperly attached heat shield – another good reason to check its state regularly.
Working catalytic converters use oxygen to convert hydrogen sulfide (which smells
of rotten eggs) to sulfur dioxide odorless gas. If your car emits an unpleasant rotten
egg aroma from its exhaust system, your converter could be failing. A blocked
converter restricts oxygen flow causing your engine to misfire.
5. Poor Fuel Efficiency
If your gas tank requires frequent topping ups, this could be a telltale sign that the
catalytic converter has become inoperable. A blocked converter restricts airflow,
forcing your engine to burn more fuel than necessary – increasing both your bill and
further clogging the catalytic converter.
Your catalytic converter could also be compromised if it emits an unpleasant rotten
egg odor, another telltale sign that its components may be failing. Fuel contains
sulfate which the converter turns into sulfur dioxide during combustion; when its
performance degrades, sulfate will exit your tailpipe as an unpleasant sulfur dioxide
scent instead.
An exhaust system emitting rattling noises is an obvious telltale sign that its time to
replace your catalytic converter. The sound results from its honeycomb mesh
interior degrading, causing parts of it to rattle around when your engine runs.